While modern style trendsetters have eliminated this as a “fashion faux pas,” many Southern women still abide by what our traditional grandmothers have told us since we were young, “no white after Labor Day!”

While I do not strictly obey this Southern tradition, I do retire my summer whites and happily continue to wear pearly white, ivories and winter whites well into the fall and winter months.  Knowing I have a few more weeks until my summer whites are retired with the holiday weekend approaching, I’ve been wearing ALL my whites lately to enjoy them while I can!

You may be wondering – what is the difference between a summer white and a fall or winter white?  A lot of this depends on the material.  Cotton, linen blends, denim, eyelet, and white shoes or sandals should all be retired with Labor Day.  Wool blends, satin, silk, lace and accessories can all be carried into fall and winter.

My favorite white accessory this summer has absolutely been this TJ Maxx clutch.  Simple, small and extremely versatile, it has been a quick grab for almost any ensemble.  This has been my first white clutch to own and I can’t help but wonder what took me so long?  I have adored it this summer and it has been the finishing touch to my outfit for many day and night outings. 

I encourage you to thumb through your own closet and maximize your summer whites in the next few weeks.  Knowing that summer’s clock is ticking only makes me treasure these seasonal pieces even more.

What has been your favorite summer white this year?  Share your favorite piece with me at Carrie Bradshaw Lied.